Ms. Hensley teaching Civics

This interactive, literature based program helps our first and second grade students develop an appreciation for the rule of law and respect for the views of others, as well as reading, communication and cooperative problem solving skills. (Sh-h-h! Don't tell the kids; they think they are just having fun listening to stories, role-playing, drawing, acting in plays, and voicing their opinions!) First grade students hear stories from large lap books, using animals and other characters to explore the concepts of Authority, Justice, Responsibility, and Privacy. They use these concepts to complete a variety of activities. In second grade, authentic children's literature sources are used to introduce Governance, Conflict Resolution, Responsibility, and Service. Our second grade program also includes lessons from visiting attorneys and culminates in activities including a mock trial and a service project. Materials used are from the Center for Civic Education and the Chicago Rights Foundation.

This "Suggested Wish" will be implemented in the next school year and starts as 1st Graders beginning the two-year civics curriculum.